Bremer Bay: Orca Watching Tour with Marine Biologist & Lunch

Summary

See wild orcas off Bremer Bay with expert guides and lunch

You’ll head out from Bremer Bay on a stable catamaran with local guides and a marine biologist, searching for wild orcas in their natural habitat. Expect close-up views of killer whales, fresh gourmet lunch onboard, and plenty of stories shared over tea as you cross one of Australia’s wildest stretches of ocean—a day you’ll remember long after the salt has left your skin.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really expect to feel nervous stepping onto the catamaran in Bremer Bay — but there it was, that little jolt in my stomach. Maybe it was the early morning chill or just knowing we were heading out to see killer whales, real ones, not the kind you see on screens. Our guide, Jess, handed out ginger tablets (apparently the Southern Ocean can get feisty) and grinned like she’d seen this all before. She probably had.

The ride out to the canyon took longer than I thought — about 90 minutes of sea spray and gulls wheeling overhead. I kept watching the horizon for any sign of orcas, but instead I got distracted by the way the wind smelled salty and sharp, and how everyone on board started swapping stories over cups of tea. At one point, Li (the marine biologist) explained how this is basically the only spot in Australia where you can reliably see killer whales. She pointed out a sunfish bobbing near the surface — honestly, it looked like a giant pancake with fins.

When we finally spotted our first pod, there was this hush across the deck — even the kids went quiet. The orcas moved so smoothly it almost didn’t look real. Someone next to me whispered “they’re hunting,” and sure enough, seabirds started circling above something in the water. It’s weird how you can feel both tiny and lucky at once. Lunch came right after — fresh sandwiches and hot soup that tasted way better than anything I’ve ever had at sea (maybe because my hands were still shaking from excitement).

I still think about that moment when an orca surfaced close enough that I could see its eye — dark and curious for half a second before it slipped away again. On the way back, Jess showed us some photos she’d taken (they email them later), and everyone looked sunburned but happy. If you’re thinking about doing a day trip to see killer whales from Bremer Bay, just go for it. You’ll come back feeling different somehow — not sure how else to say it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bremer Canyon Orca Expedition

• Full-day marine wildlife expedition

Top questions

How long does the Bremer Canyon orca tour last?

The expedition is a full-day tour departing in the morning from Bremer Bay.

Is lunch included on the killer whale tour?

Yes, morning tea, catered lunch, and afternoon tea are all included.

Are there marine biologists on board?

Yes, each trip includes a qualified marine biologist as your guide.

When is killer whale season at Bremer Bay?

The tours run from December to April when orcas are reliably seen.

What other wildlife might we see besides orcas?

You may also spot pilot whales, sperm whales, dolphins, sharks, sunfish, and seabirds.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Are dietary requirements catered for?

Yes—just let them know your needs when booking.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Bremer Bay; arrive by 7:45am for boarding.

What’s included

Your day includes morning tea as you set off from Bremer Bay aboard a stable catamaran with experienced local guides and a marine biologist sharing insights along the way; enjoy a freshly prepared gourmet lunch plus afternoon tea before returning to shore—dietary needs can be accommodated if you mention them when booking.